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Integrating Graphene and Straw in Sustainable Residential Design

Authors:
Muhammad Nabeel Bundhoo, Bibi Zaynah Rojoa, Muhammad Peerbux
Integrating Graphene and Straw in Sustainable Residential Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing graphene and straw for enhanced structural integrity and thermal performance, this sustainable residence incorporates dynamic shading and intelligent systems to optimize living conditions in Dubai's climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes graphene for enhanced structural performance and reduced weight.
02
Incorporates straw bale insulation for superior thermal efficiency.
03
Features integrated rainwater harvesting systems for sustainable resource management.
04
Employs dynamic shading devices that adapt to seasonal sunlight.
05
Integrates AI technology for real-time energy and resource monitoring.

## Project Overview
The "House of the Future" is an architectural design initiative located in Dubai, specifically tailored for the Emirati context. The intent is to innovate residential spaces, responding to the challenges posed by climate change while promoting sustainable living practices. This design melds traditional Emirati cultural values with contemporary technology and emphasizes resilience, comfort, and eco-friendly features.

### Spatial Organization
The site plan exhibits a well-defined arrangement of private, semi-private, and public spaces. The ground floor features major communal areas, including a family dining room and living spaces, which are designed to foster inclusivity. The kitchen serves as a multifunctional area for both cooking and social interaction. On the first floor, private sleeping quarters ensure a peaceful environment, while the lower ground floor accommodates essential utilities to enhance operational efficiency. Internal courtyards provide natural ventilation and lighting, integral to adapting to Dubai's climate, and are complemented by strategically placed landscaping that enhances the connection between the structure and its surroundings.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Key materials selected for the project support its sustainability objectives. Graphene, recognized for its strength and lightweight properties, reinforces the structural integrity of key components. Sustainable timber sourced from responsibly managed forests contributes to the home's ecological framework. Additionally, straw bales in wall construction offer superior thermal performance with minimal environmental impact. Water management systems, such as rainwater harvesting tanks, support self-sustenance, while photovoltaic panels and wind turbines empower the residence with renewable energy sources. Each material is carefully chosen to minimize energy consumption, enhance occupant comfort, and promote long-term sustainability.

Strategic design choices also include intelligent living spaces equipped with AI and IoT technologies that monitor energy and water usage, enabling real-time adjustments for efficiency. Dynamic shading elements such as adjustable sails and green roofs adapt to seasonal changes, maintaining a comfortable indoor climate. Landscaping integrates native plants that require minimal water, reinforcing the commitment to local ecology and environmental responsibility.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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